In the crucible of my personal struggles, I discovered God’s purpose for my life – to be a bridge builder. My experience of serving 3 and 1/2 years in a prison camp spurred me to connect with individuals emerging from incarceration. This journey was not just about connecting people; it was about fostering understanding and facilitating transformation.
My work as a Community Coordinator for Georgia Community Supervision further underscored the importance of building bridges. Here, my focus was on fostering positive relationships between police officers and the communities they serve. This was a mission born out of necessity and driven by a deep understanding of the dynamics at play.
As the leader of a multi-racial church, I was called upon to bridge racial divides. The task was challenging, but it was also rewarding in ways that words often fail to capture. My role did not end here. Backed by my experiences, I committed myself to building reentry bridges and resources within the community.
I understand the sting of rejection, having been labeled an ex-felon despite being exonerated from a wrongful conviction. Recognizing this pain and channeling it into purpose can be a process, often fraught with emotional turmoil. Many of us, when faced with pain and trauma, instinctively bury it deep within ourselves, hoping to escape its grip. However, if left unaddressed, this pain can silently wreak havoc within us.
Conversely, if we harness our pain and leverage it, we equip ourselves to empathize with others in similar situations. We can offer them the solace we have received, turning our trials into a source of comfort for others.
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ.” (2 Corinthians 1:3-7)
This passage encapsulates how pain can propel us towards purpose.
Dr. Aaron Lewis’s book “Keys to Unlocking Your Destiny” has been instrumental in my journey. It provides insights into understanding our destiny and finding our true selves. The book has touched the lives of thousands of formerly incarcerated individuals, helping them find their purpose and destiny through their pain.
My new book, “Pain Pushed Me Into Purpose,” further explores this theme. It delves into the dynamics of pain and how it can be harnessed to drive personal growth and transformation. “Pain Pushed Me Into Purpose” was officially released on September 3rd, 2023, and has since been widely acclaimed for its insightful exploration of pain and purpose (Source: The Source Church Unlimited | Buford GA).
I discuss the subject of pain extensively and emphasize how understanding and confronting our own pain can lead to the discovery of our true purpose (Source: Know Pain Know Purpose book by Lee Robbins). This book is not just a testament to Robbins’ personal journey but an empowering guide for others navigating their own paths.
The book is available for purchase on Lee Robbins’ website, where you also have the option to request a signed copy. (Source: PAIN PUSHED ME INTO PURPOSE – Life Empowerment). It is also available on other platforms such as Better World Books.
In addition to the book, Robbins has shared insights and excerpts from his work through various platforms. His posts on LinkedIn and live sessions on Facebook provide additional context and discussions around the themes in his book (Source: Lee Robbins, Mdiv.’s Post | Lee Robbins was live).
Finally, I encourage you to consider supporting the work of Vital Signs Ministry, an organization committed to helping individuals navigate life after incarceration. Your contributions can make a significant difference in the lives of those seeking to find their purpose amidst life’s challenges.
The journey from pain to purpose is a deeply personal and transformative one. Whether it’s through books like “Keys to Unlocking Your Destiny” and “Pain Pushed Me Into Purpose,” or through the support of organizations like Vital Signs Ministry, we can all play a part in helping individuals navigate this journey.
Pastor Lee Robbins, November 3, 2023
To make a contribution to Vital Signs Ministry click here
To order a copy of Pain Pushed Me Into Purpose click here